The U.S. House of Representatives passed a "clean" debt
ceiling extension Tuesday with Republicans backing away from tacking on conditions to
the measure.

The bill, passed on a 221-201 vote - including 193 Democrats and 28 Republicans - extends the nation's
borrowing limit through March 15, 2015. Alabama's Congressional delegation was divided
along party lines, with Republicans Reps. Mo Brooks, Martha Roby, Bradley Byrne
and Spencer Bachus voting against the measure. Rep. Terri Sewell voted for the plan
and Rep. Robert Aderholt was listed as not voting.

The Democratic-controlled Senate is expected to begin
consideration of the measure Wednesday. It faces a tight deadline as Treasury
Secretary Jack Lew has said the department will have exhausted its "extraordinary"
measures used to cover obligations by Feb. 27.

If Congress fails to increase the debt ceiling, the U.S. could
default on some of its obligations and delay payments ranging from veterans
benefits to tax refunds.

President Barack Obama and Congressional Democrats said they
would not negotiate on the debt ceiling and would only consider a version with
no added provisions.